29/08/2025
Let’s talk about the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)!
The ANS plays a crucial role in regulating our vital functions in our body. It is made up of two main branches:
1. The Sympathetic Nervous System and
2. The Parasympathetic Nervous System
🤔 What exactly does that mean?
The Sympathetic system is more commonly known as the “fight or flight” system. It is activated in response to stress or perceived threats, preparing the body for action. In our body this displays as increased heart rate and blood pressure, change in breathing, release of glucose by the liver to send energy to the muscles and limit non-essential functions like digestion. We don’t need to be digesting our Sunday dinner whilst trying to run away from immediate threats!
Equally, the Parasympathetic system is known as “rest and digest”. Promoting relaxation, recovery and energy conservation. This shows up in the body as slowing of the heart rate, stimulating of digestion, and secretion of glands.
It is important to note that the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic systems are designed to function in a complementary and dynamic manner. Their balance is essential to maintain homeostasis in our body and allow for flexible adaptation to environmental demands.
‼️ Dysfunctions of the ANS can contribute to various medical and psychological conditions. For example, high blood pressure, anxiety and post-traumatic stress, depression, digestive disorders and emotional regulation problems.
If you are feeling that you are not ‘in balance’ and maybe experiencing one or a number of these symptoms, get in contact, Craniosacral works wonderfully with regulating the ANS and anything related to this that may inhibiting your ability to a balance in overall health.
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